FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2 Pages

       Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C
345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-232-5556
molaub@gmail.com   

Spinal Adjustments May Lower Blood Pressure

Chiropractic journal reports results of new study

(April 3, 2008, West Hartford, CT)  According to a recent article in The Journal of Chiropractic Education, a team of New Zealand researchers has found a correlation between chiropractic adjustments of the neck and lower back and reduced blood pressure.

The 63 participants in the case study were divided into two random groups.  After subjecting those studied to a short period of relaxation in a sitting position, chiropractors took blood pressure readings from both arms of the subjects.  In the experimental group, a spinal adjustment of the cervical (neck), lumbosacral (lower back), and thoracic (chest) area was performed ¡V depending on needs of the individual patients.  In the control group, patients received only gentle digital pressure on their spine.  The same doctors who recorded the initial blood pressure results (and who performed the adjustments or digital pressure) then took new readings.

The results were surprising. To date, most studies concerning the effects of a chiropractic adjustment on one¡¦s blood pressure have been inconclusive.  The New Zealand study, however, showed a direct impact on participants¡¦ blood pressure levels.  Those in the experimental group showed ¡§statistically significant changes of systolic and diastolic blood pressure.¡¨  Subjects whose cervical (neck) and lumbosacral (lower back) were adjusted showed a decrease in their blood pressure, while subjects whose thoracic (chest) was adjusted showed an increase in blood pressure.  In contrast, the control group, which received no adjustments but only gentle digital pressure, showed much less significant changes in blood pressure.

Spinal Adjustments May Lower Blood Pressure   
4/3/2008 
Page 2 of 2      
Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C
345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-232-5556
molaub@gmail.com 
        

It is too early to assess the clinical aspects of these results, Dr. Moshe Laub said when contacted about the study.  Dr. Laub, whose chiropractic offices are located in West Hartford, CT, follows developments in chiropractic science closely.

I am encouraged by these promising results, Dr. Laub said.  However, further trials on vertebral subluxation that is, a mechanical problem in the spine that disrupts proper functioning of the body¡¦s nervous system¡Xand its effects on blood pressure are needed and should include longer term follow-up as well.¡¨

Those seeking additional information regarding this study may contact Dr. Moshe Laub directly at 345 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06117, telephone 860-232-5556.
     

Reference:
Kelly Holt, B. Sc. (Chiro), Randy W. Beck, B. Sc., D.C., Ph. D., New Zealand College of Chiropractic, and Stephen G. Sexton, B. App. Sc. (Clin.), B. Chiro. Sci., D.A.C.N.B., Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies. Reflex Effects of a Spinal Adjustment on Blood Pressure, The Journal of Chiropractic Education, Vol. 20, No. 1, 2006.

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
            West Hartford Chiropractic, LLC
2 Pages                                                          345 N Main Street, Suite 322
            West Hartford, CT 06117
            (860)232-5556
            molaub@gmail.com

Study Shows Chiropractic Care Quiets Crying Babies

A Simple Adjustment Could Mean No More Tears

(07-14-08, West Hartford).  Research out of Great Britain offers hope to parents across the globe whose weary morning appearance is caused by a crying infant at home. Baby¡¦s tears not only concern mom and dad about his/her health, they often disrupt the entire family and in worst case scenarios may impact postnatal depression and lead to Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Where should parents turn? Well, research authored by Joyce Miller of the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic at the University of Bournemouth details that an excessively crying baby drives 21% of families in the UK to seek care. She found that pharmaceutical, dietary and behavioral interventions most often provide no comfort to the infants or anyone in the family.

But, a trip to the chiropractor offers relief to crying babies and those living under the same roof.

Miller's work, entitled Cry Babies: A Framework for Chiropractic Care, notes that persistently crying infants are traditionally diagnosed with colic defined in 1954 by Dr. M.A. Wessel as bouts of crying amounting to more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks.  A useful description for research, but not very consoling to distressed parents. Furthermore, the diagnosis of colic implies gastro-intestinal disorder. Yet, out of the approximately 5,000 infants brought to the University's teaching clinic in one years time, only 7% presented with digestive issues. 63% of these infants were brought to the clinic due to excessive, unexplained crying.

Perhaps the term colicshould be abandoned, writes Miller.

Why did chiropractic succeed where other options failed to sooth the seemingly inconsolable child?

Chiropractic care is primarily aimed at correcting biomechanical and neurological fault. Miller's writings offer ever-increasing evidence that antenatal and natal factors contribute to irritability in infants. 

 More

Chiropractic Care Quiets Crying Babies
        Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
06-22-08       (860)232-5556
Page 2 of 2               molaub@gmail.com

Pre-natal constraint  pressure in the womb, trauma during birth, the use of forceps or other extraction devices  may be the underlying cause for the discomfort of the crying infant,  according to Dr. Moshe Laub, a West Hartford-based chiropractor whose helps many pediatric patients.

Miller's research established protocols that many doctors, including Laub, are following.

After ruling out other diseases and clinical conditions that could cause gastro-intestinal disorders  and after interpreting the baby's growth chart for consistent development  I have found that manual spinal adjustments bring about a significant reduction in an infant's crying, followed by better sleeping patterns and an improvement in posture, continued Laub.

And, while tranquility leads to a happy household, pediatric chiropractic care offers long-term benefits as well.

Chiropractic provides a maintenance program for one¡¦s nervous system that allows the human body to operate at peak efficiently, states Laub. If the body is free of nerve interference, it promotes health. Providing chiropractic to an infant and continuing through adulthood is the true definition of health care ¡V taking steps to ensure health instead of waiting for pain or illness, added Laub.

I guess it's fair to say that if youre not bringing your baby to a chiropractor, its a crying shame, concluded a smiling Laub.

Reference:
Joyce Miller, Cry Babies: A Framework for Chiropractic Care, The Clinical Chiropractic (2007) 10, 139-146.

  Press Release
The Backpack Dilemma

You can't tell your children not to bring their textbooks to and from school
- but what if the consequence of a consistently overloaded backpack is neck,
back and shoulder pain? Chiropractors, pediatricians and orthopedic surgeons
all agree that backpacks are a problem for a child's spine.

While health care professionals do not agree on the exact weight, the
consensus is that a child burdened with more than 10 percent of their body
weight risks back and neck pain. The majority of health care professionals
agree that a child carrying 15 percent or more of their body weight can
suffer from severe back, neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and other spinal
discomfort; not to mention aggravate pre-existing spinal conditions such as
scoliosis.

The first priority in purchasing a backpack is to select function over
fashion. Here are a few criteria to consider when choosing a better
functional backpack:

1. The backpack should fit properly (not too long or too short).

2. It should have wide, padded, adjustable straps (for proper positioning on
the back).

3. A backpack with a hip strap or lumbar pillow provides additional
protection. The hip strap, when used, can distribute a portion of the weight
to the hips, easing the load on the spine and shoulders. The use of a lumbar
pillow will provide the necessary back support to the lumbar region, where
the greatest portion of weight is being carried.

A backpack stuffed with that "extra" book, binder, electronic device or
water bottle can easily add an unnecessary 10 pounds. Parents need to show
their children the importance of loading and carrying their backpacks
appropriately. The heaviest items should rest against the back, which means
loading them first and attempting to distribute the weight evenly.

So, with the new school year just few weeks away, remember that when it comes to choosing a backpack, think function before fashion. Your child's health depends on it.

Dr. Moshe Laub B.P.T., D.C.
Chiropractic Physician
West Hartford Chiropractic, LLC
345 North Main Street, Suite 322, Bishop's Corner. West Hartford. CT 06117. Tel: 860-232-5556.   Email : molaub@gmail.com   Site: www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com  

--
Sarah Laub
Director of Community Outreach
West Hartford Chiropractic
345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
Office: 860-232-0029
Fax: 860-232-9555

Watch our video and read patient reviews at:

http://hartford.citysearch.com/profile/41781126/west_hartford_ct/west_hartford_chiropractic.html

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub
 345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-232-5556
sarahlaub@gmail.com
www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com
                          

Study Shows Chiropractic Care Can
Benefit Children with Autism
Local Doctor Calls for Further Research

(October 6, 2008,West Hartford, CT). The past decade has seen the number of diagnosed cases of autism rapidly increase throughout the nation. These alarming numbers have West Hartford-based Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C. pointing to a study that indicates that chiropractic care may alleviate  at least to some degree some of the associated symptoms of autism.

Dr. Laub references a study published this year in Clinical Chiropractic. The study showed that spinal manipulation (particularly upper cervical adjusting) may help with some symptoms of autism. It cannot cure or treat the underlying disease process, but for patients with autism, it may be the symptoms of autism that are the most distressing.

Although the results of this study are promising, further research is clearly needed, said Laub, who follows scientific developments in the chiropractic profession quite closely.

Autism is a life-long developmental disability that affects social interaction, communication and imagination. There are no medications that can cure autism,

More

Chiropractic Care Helps Autistic Children  Page 2 of 3
Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub
 345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-232-5556
sarahlaub@gmail.com
www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com

but drugs can relieve and treat symptoms  such as aggression and hyperactivity   thus helping autistic individuals cope with their disease. Even though the exact causes for the disease are still unknown, current research mainly focuses on genetics; however, environmental factors and imbalances in neurochemistry may also be involved. There is no single, unique measure of abnormality found in autism, because the spectrum of autistic conditions and symptoms is wide ranging  from severe disability in some patients to mild problems of communicating and understanding in others with average and above average intelligence.

Parents first become concerned about their child¡¦s behavior  particularly the absence of play  when their child is around 18 months old. Earlier detection, however, is possible. According to Jane Jennings and Martina Barker of the Newbury Chiropractic Center in Berkshire, Great Britain, a simple checklist can help parents evaluate early on whether their child might be autistic: Does the child pretend play? Does the child use his or her index finger to point, to indicate interest in something? Does the child take an interest in other children? Does the child enjoy playing peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek? And does the child ever bring objects over to you to show you something? If the answer to two or more questions is no, autism may be a factor because it impairs the way the child communicates, relates to other people and understands emotional expressions.

During the aforementioned study, researchers carried out a series of chiropractic adjustments on 26 autistic children over a 9-month period. The results were an improvement in certain reflexes and sensations, an increase in neck range of motion, and improvement of other health problems.
More

Chiropractic Care Helps Autistic Children  Page 3 of 3
Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub
 345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-232-5556
sarahlaub@gmail.com
www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com
  

Many of the children were taken off Ritalin; their bladder and bowel control improved; some children started to speak, eye contact and attention span improved while hyperactivity and aggressive behavior were reduced. Also, five children were able to attend regular classes at school for the first time.

The autistic children suffered from neurological interference that hindered their development. The researchers concluded that correcting a chiropractic partial dislocation can positively affect local neurological function and cause an overall improvement. Even though there was no control group to back up the findings, the results are encouraging: They show that chiropractic care may improve the quality of life of autistic children by relieving some of the symptoms of their disease.

To the extent that chiropractic care can have a positive effect, that is beneficial; but improving the quality of life for autistic children is just a first step toward the ultimate goal of finding a cure,¡¨ concluded Laub.

Editor¡¦s note:
Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Laub, whose office is located at 345 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT 06117(Phone-860-232-5556).

Reference Material: 
Autism:  A Chiropractic Perspective¡¨ by Jane Jennings and Martina Baker of the Newbury Chiropractic Centre, Newbury, Berkshire, UK, published in Clinical Chiropractic (2006), Vol. 9, pp. 6-10.

Avoid Leaf Raking Injuries

AUTHOR: Dr. Moshe LaubCONTACT INFORMATION:
Dr. Moshe Laub
West Hartford Chiropractic
(860) 232-5556 or
sarahlaub@gmail.com

Peak foliage has passed, and now autumn's splendor is mostly on the ground. Front yard, back yard, side yard... So weekend warriors now turn to the annual chores of raking, bagging, blowing, and mulching the leaves.

While raking is an excellent, moderate form of exercise, more than 28,000 people are medically treated each year for back, neck, and should injuries directly related to disposing of leaves! (Source; Consumer Product Safety Commission Report).

To avoid injuries to your back, neck, shoulders and wrists while you're cleaning up leaves, here are some tips:

1. Choose the Right Size Rake: Yes, those "super size" rakes might lull you into thinking they will cut the time required in half, but they rarely do and actually increase the potential for injury. Bottom line; choose a rake that is light and easy to use for you size/strength. And if it's cold and damp, stretch more and make sure you're warmly dressed. Cold makes muscles and tendons tighten up and become good candidates for injury.

2. Stretch- Before and After: Do a little "warming up" before you start tossing leaves around. A walk around the yard to loosen up the legs, and gently rotate your back and neck to let them know they'll be getting a workout soon. Windmill your shoulders to loosen them up. 5-10 Minutes of stretching before and after you rake will work wonders.

3. Switch Hands: Most people keep their hands in the same position on the rake. Over an hour or tow of raking, this puts 'repetitive stress" on only one side of back/ neck/shoulders. Simply switch the position of your hands, and alternate hands frequently, and you'll fee better when the leaves are done!

4. Use Your Legs, Not Your Back: Of course you know to bend and lift with your legs (not your back), but when raking leaves it's also important not to reach too far with the rake and extend your back (and possibly hurt it). Stay in a normal, upright position and use shorter raking strokes instead of long, reaching strokes. You'll immediately notice that you'll be moving your legs a bit more to get to the leaves, but that's fine (they're stronger than your arms, anyway!)

5. Hand Blowers: The natural tendency when you use a hand blower is to bend slightly forward from the waist to get the right angle to blow the leaves. While it might be fine for you leaves; it's a terrible positioning for your lower back. Stay upright and avoid the tendency to bend! Eye and protection should be used, as well.

While leaf raking is a bit of a chore, it's often done in spectacular fall weather conditions which make it easy and enjoyable to be outside. Take your time (the leaves aren't going anywhere fast), and don't try to load up those tarps with all of the leaves at one time! Dragging the tarps around (particularly by yourself) is a common cause of back pain.

So, enjoy this last big of the fall season, and one final observation. Everyone knows they're supposed to lift leaf bags (and leaves into the leaf bag) by bending their knees and using their legs instead of their backs. Just take a look around your block and see if anyone is actually following this eminently practical and sound advice! And then make your own decision!

ABOUT WEST HARTFORD CHIROPRACTIC: Dr. Moshe Laub, DC  is the founder of West Hartford Chiropractic, LLC. WCH produces a monthly series of "public service announcements" that contain health and wellness tips on season activities ranging from snow shoveling to choosing the right backpack for your kids during "back to school" time.

Dr. Laub can also be reached for personal interviews and expanded versions of this article for use in print, TV, or radio formats.

West Hartford Chiropractic (Bishop's Corner)
345 North Main Street, Suite 322
West Hartford, CT 06117
PH (860) 232-5556
EMAIL: Dr.Laub@WestHartfordChiropractic.com
WEB: www. WestHartfordChiropractic.com

--
Sarah Laub
Director of Community Outreach
West Hartford Chiropractic
345 North Main Street
West Hartford, CT 06117
Office:  860-232-0029
Fax:     860-232-9555

Watch our video and read patient reviews at:

http://hartford.citysearch.com/profile/41781126/west_hartford_ct/west_hartford_chiropractic.html

Helpful Tips for Shoveling Snow

 Dr. Moshe Laub
 West Hartford Chiropractic
Bishop¡¦s Corner,
West Hartford, CT
860-232-5556

By far the most important tip to prevent injuries during snow shoveling is to treat it as a strenuous physical workout. Some experts say that snow shoveling is as strenuous on the body as running 9 miles per hour. You would not want to wake up early in the morning and dash out into the cold for a strenuous run without warming up your body.  Stretching* the muscles of the arms, back, shoulders, and legs before going out is of utmost importance for preventing injuries. According to the same concept, cooling down after shoveling with a good stretch again will prevent many possible injuries and soreness.

Try to push the snow.  Avoid lifting it whenever possible.  Dr. Laub suggests mentally dividing the driveway into a grid system where you traverse the shortest distance possible in order to be able to push to the edge instead of lifting. For example, when shoveling a driveway push the snow from side to side rather than length-wise.

When you are forced to lift the snow, bend at the knees, lift with your back straight. Your legs can either be shoulder width apart or one in front of the other. Try to lift smaller amounts of snow in the shovel rather than heavy loads that strain the lower back.
 
When you must throw the snow and need to rotate, be sure to rotate the whole body and not just the upper body.  Try not to move in a quick jerky manner.

Just as with other strenuous activities you must be careful to breathe properly. A common mistake is to hold one¡¦s breathe at critical moments and this can lead to a herniated disc. Pay attention try exhale during the exertion. For example, inhale while scooping the snow into the shovel and exhale when lifting it.

Dr. Laub also advises drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration which is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer.

*Dr. Laub will be holding free helpful one-hour seminar on shoveling, stretching and avoiding low back pain.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2 Pages

Contact: Dr. Moshe Laub
345 North Main Street
West Hartford,CT 06117
860-232-8555
www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com
moloaub@gmail.com

Chiropractic Care May Ease Learning Disabilities

(January 12th, West Hartford, CT).  A renowned Swiss doctor has authored research which concludes that chiropractic care has benefited those with learning disabilities and should be included in a multidisciplinary approach to treat affected individuals.
 
The published work of Dr. Yannick Pauli ¡V the president of the Swiss Chiropractic Pediatric Association ¡V is entitled The Effects of Chiropractic Care on Individuals Suffering from Learning Disabilities and Dyslexia: A Review of the Literature. ¡§Pauli¡¦s culmination of data certainly gives hope to those afflicted and their loved ones,¡¨ said Dr. Moshe Laub a chiropractor whose family wellness practice is located in Bishop's Corner, West Hartford.

Of all school-age children in the United States, 3-10% are affected with a learning disability. These range from speech and language disorders to academic skills disorders like dyslexia (which affects 8 in 10 children diagnosed as learning disabled) and include motor skills disorders such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

These neurodevelopmental disorders have long-term effects as well. It is not only about the inability to read, write or concentrate. The disorders may also interfere with self-esteem, family and peer relationships later on in life. And, they can cause loss of motivation and/or problems in socializing.

Since most learning disorders are based in the brain, they are central nervous dysfunctions thought to be triggered by nerve interference or misalignments called vertebral subluxations, added Dr. Laub.

Pauli writes that these spinal misalignments ¡§alter the quality and quantity of neural inputs to the central nervous system  and result in an asymmetric function of brain hemispheres , [thus preventing] the achievement of temporal coherence between the two hemispheres.¡¨

In other words, a reduction of spinal misalignment may restore proper joint and central nervous system function and improve motor balance overall, noted  
More 
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345 North Main Street
West Hartford,CT 06117
860-232-8555
www.WestHartfordChiropractic.com
Dr.Laub@WestHartfordChiropractic.com

In his analysis, Pauli also found that chiropractors are not primarily interested in the cure of cognitive and behavioral disorders. He states, The chiropractor does not attempt to take over the role of a speech therapist, educational psychologist or neuropsychologist in diagnosing or treating the disorder, but rather offers a unique perspective by attempting to correct a central nervous system dysfunction thought to impair the individua'¦s potential to learn properly.

Pauli explains that correcting the underlying cause may be the key in maintaining various cognitive abilities that are essential to learning, because the only source of constant stimulation to the brain comes from the spine. And misalignment of the spine causes inadequate stimulation of the brain, which in turn triggers problems throughout the body.

It is important to point to Dr. Pauli's call for a multi-disciplinary approach when assisting those with a learning disability, said Laub. Chiropractic care  a combination of adjustments, proper diet and exercise plus a healthy mental approach  is not a cure all. But, it is a wonderful maintenance program for the nervous system. And, a full functioning nervous system allows the incredible organism known as the human body to do some amazing things, concluded Dr. Laub.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact:  Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
2 Pages         345 North Main Street
                     West Hartford, CT 06117 
                     (860) 232-5556 
                     sarahlaub@gmail.com

Local Doctor Points to Study in Infant Care

Chiropractic Care May Improve Infants Sleep

(February 6, 2009, West Hartford, CT). A pilot study conducted by Joyce Miller and Matts Klemsdal evaluated whether routine chiropractic care in infants had also improved the patients sleep pattern.

Sleep problems plague about 25 percent of all infants; they are measured by the time it takes the child to settle down, the amount of consecutive sleep hours the child accumulates and the quality of sleep. All this can add a great amount of stress to new parents. And according to West Hartford-based Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C, in many cases, a disturbed sleep pattern is usually also accompanied by an infant¡¦s excessive crying.

Dr. Laub points to a pilot study published this year in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics.  

In the study, 116 infants, who were in chiropractic care for various health challenges, were rated on their sleep behavior during the course of their care. Of the infants, only 10 percent had initially come to the chiropractor because of dysomnia or sleep disturbances, while the majority of the children received chiropractic care for excessive crying.  

More

Chiropractic Care May Improve Infants Sleep             Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
February 6, 2009                    860-232-5556
Page 2 of 2                             sarahlaub@gmail.com

The parents were asked to complete a questionnaire on their child¡¦s sleep pattern after the 1st, 4th and 7th visit to the chiropractor on the amount of hours the child slept, the quality of sleep and the time it took for the child to fall asleep.  The data was analyzed and showed a significant improvement in the children¡¦s sleep pattern after the adjustments.

After the 1st visit, almost 40 percent of infants slept deeper. That percentage jumped to more than 60 percent after the 7th visit. The percentage of children who had difficulty falling asleep fell from more than 65 percent after the 1st visit to just over 22 percent after the 7th visit. Most children had received adjustments to the upper cervical spine.

This is an important finding that warrants more scientific and clinical research, adds Dr. Laub. Chiropractic care seems not only to help children get a better night¡¦s sleep, it also reduces the stress on parents. And stress, as we all know, has its own health challenges.¡¨

Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Laub, whose office is located at 345 North Main Street,  West Hartford, CT USA (telephone 860-232-5556).

#

Reference:
Can Chiropractic Care Improve Infants Sleep? by Joyce Miller and Matts Klemsdal, Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, Volume 9, No. 1, 2008.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Contact:  Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
2 Pages          345 North Main Street
                     West Hartford, CT 06117
           (860) 232-5556
           sarahlaub@gmail.com

Local Doctor Stresses Mind-Body Connection

Chiropractic Care Eases Severe Depression

(February 6, 2009, West Hartford). A case study authored by Alain M.J. Desaulniers credits regular chiropractic care with helping a 46-year old man overcome his major depression and increase his quality of life.

More than 15 million American adults are diagnosed with mood disorders every year, which include major depression, Dysthymia and Bipolar Disorder. The disease is usually treated with antidepressants, according to the study, but the quality of life of people who are clinically depressed is subdued by the medications¡¦ many unwanted side effects.

The prevalence of the disease has Dr. Laub pointing to the case report published this year in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research.  The report states the important role chiropractic care can play in the management of depressions.

In this particular study, a 46-year old man suffered from major depression and was taking an antidepressant with unwanted side effects, such as decrease in his sex drive, dizziness, muscle weakness and insomnia. A chiropractic evaluation revealed that he had suffered physical trauma in the past, which led to vertebral subluxations.  A subluxation is a condition in which the body is unable to function properly because of interferences with the nervous system, and the condition may be corrected with chiropractic adjustments.
More

Chiropractic Care Eases Severe Depression               Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
February 6, 2009                    860-232-5556
Page 2 of 2                   sarahlaub@gmail.com

The patient had a total of 34 adjustments done on various parts of his spine over a period of 11 months. After the first visit, his dizziness subsided, and he experienced a decrease in lower back and neck pain.  After three visits, he felt less anxious and fatigued and reported an increase in muscle strength. Over time, his depression significantly improved, and he was eating healthier.

Previous studies have shown a correlation between injury or trauma to the spine and the onset of social disorders, in addition to biochemical changes in the brain.
One of the areas that chiropractic care focuses on in the spinal cord is enriched with neuropeptides receptors, which are responsible for the so-called brain reward cascade that triggers a feeling of well-being.  

An impairment of these receptors due to subluxation in the corresponding area of the spine can be one of the underlying causes for depression and for mood or social alterations, said Dr. Laub. However, more studies of this kind are needed.  But one thing is clear: An adjusted spine is vital to our health, to our overall state of well being and thus to our quality of life.

#
Editor's note:
Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Laub, whose office is located at 345 North Main Street, West Hartford, CT  (telephone 860-232-5556).

Reference:
Effect of Subluxation-Based Chiropractic Care on Quality of Life in a Patient With Major Depression by Alain M.J. Desaulniers, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, April 23, 2008.

Lower Back Pain - Anatomy, Physiopathology and Differential Diagnosis/  Moshe Laub B.P.T., D.C.

Low Back 

 Low back complaints are a continuing concern for the general population these days, resulting in millions of dollars spent due to absenteeism, lost work, and untold suffering every day. Low back pain (lumbalgia) can affect people of all ages, regardless of their activity levels. Approximately 80% of adults report having low back pain at some point in their lives; however only 14% of those will have complaints lasting longer than two weeks. Unfortunatlely, low back pain can be a severely debilitating condition and extremely frustrating to cope with.

RELEVANT ANATOMY FOR THE LOW BACK

« Lumbar Vertebrae
« Lumbar Discs
« Lumbar Facet Joints
« Lumbar Spinal Nerves
« Lumbar Spinal Musculature
« Sacroiliac Joint

Lumbar Vertebrae

The lumbar spine contains 5 vertebrae which sit on top of the sacrum. Cortical endplates border the sides of each vertebra, like a lip or ridge, which help hold the intervertebral discs in place. Various muscles and ligaments attach to these bones, which also serve to protect the lower spinal cord and lumbar nerve roots.

The lumbar vertebrae are located between the pelvis and upper torso, and bear much of the stresses and weight of the body. The structural predisposition of absorbing much of the body¡¦s weight results in frequent lumbar vertebral subluxations, misalignments, and improper motion patterns of the lumbar vertebrae. If left uncorrected, these misalignments and faulty biomechanics of the lower spine can result in injury and irreparable degenerative changes.

Lumbar Intervertebral Discs

The lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD) is the cartilage that sits between the vertebrae in your spine, which essentially act as a cushion to absorb the forces as they are distributed through the spine. The discs also serve to protect the facet joints (a.k.a. zygapophyseal joints) from excess forces and degeneration and permit motion between the vertebrae. Each disc contains an outer band of cartilage, called the annulus fibrosus that encompasses an inner gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus.

90% of all disc herniations affect the 4th and 5th lumbar discs, which affect the L5 and S1 nerves respectively. This is due to the increased pressure and stresses these segments endure under repetitive stress and loads. Disc herniations in the lumbar spine are the most common causes of "sciatica", which refers to pain coursing down the back of the leg in the area of the sciatic nerve. Possible symptoms include pain, muscle spasm, numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs and/or feet.
In rare cases, a lumbar disc herniation can compress the spinal nerves which provide motor control to the bowel and bladder. Although rare, this condition called ¡§cauda equina syndrome,¡¨requires immediate medical intervention. Without immediate decompression the neurological deficits may become permanent. Hence, if you are experiencing severe back pain with loss of bowel/bladder function, please seek emergency medical treatment.
Lumbar Facet Joints
The facet joints (a.k.a. zygapophyseal joints) in the lumbar spine allow for considerable amounts of flexion, and to a small degree, some extension. Side bending and rotation are limited by the vertical orientation of the facets. These joints must withstand large amounts of stress from the body and are subject to acute and repetitive injuries, as well as degenerative arthritis. As degeneration of these joints occur, ligamentous laxity results, which allows for excess movement of the vertebrae and subluxation.

Facet joints are most commonly injured during movements involving a rotational and/or bending component. Pain is often sharp and localized to the area of the affected facet joint. If severe enough, bony arthritic enlargement of the joint (hypertrophy) can impinge upon spinal nerve roots and produce symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling down the leg, as well as leg weakness, in addition to back pain.

Lumbar Spinal Nerves

In between the vertebrae and discs lies the intervertebral foramen (IVF), a small hole where nerve roots sit once they exit the spinal canal (which houses the spinal cord). The weakest aspect of the intervertebral discs, posterior and lateral, is proximal to the IVF. Disc injuries commonly result in compressing, stretching or irritating the nerve roots exiting the IVF's. The lumbar spinal nerves innervate structures in the lower extremities, and when irritated the results can be numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the leg(s) and/or feet.
Lumbar Spinal Musculature
The paraspinal muscles in the lumbar spine attach to the spinal vertebrae, ribs, and pelvis to provide the trunk with movement. These muscles work very hard to stabilize the lumbar spine since there are few ligaments to help do this job. Unfortunately, these muscles are often overworked and more prone to being injured. The pain associated with paraspinal muscle injury may be sharp, dull, boring, or a generalized ache in the area of the lower back, and is often worse with movement.
Sacroiliac Joint
The sacroiliac joints are located between the sacrum and the ilium bones of the pelvis. These joints may also become irritated or injured resulting in lower back pain, buttock pain, and occasionally leg pain. This is largely due to the fact that the SI joint innervation is from a broad area (L3-S2), involving both the lumbar and sacral nerve plexuses. This joint can be particularly irritated during pregnancy when hormonal changes and pressure from the forming fetus increases the stress on these joints.

LOW BACK CONDITIONS

Lumbar disc herniation

The disc is situated between the spinal bones (vertebrae) and serves as a connector, spacer, and shock absorber for the spine. When healthy, discs allow for normal turning and bending. Discs can bulge, herniate, or rupture, resulting in various degrees of musculoskeletal and neurological sequelae that can impede one¡¦s daily activities. Disc herniation occurs when the outer portion of the disc breaks open or cracks, allowing the nucleus pulposus to escape and push through. This is called a Herniated Nucleus Pulposus (HNP) or herniated disc. In some cases, the torn annulus fibers are the source of pain, but in other cases the herniated disc puts pressure on the spinal nerve root at the intervertebral foramen, which can cause symptoms such as pain, muscle spasm, numbness, cramping, leg weakness, or loss of function. Because the nerve roots in the lumbar spine innervate areas of the thigh, leg and foot, a lumbar disc herniation can cause pain in any one of these areas.

Recent research suggests a primary source of pain from a disc herniation stems from the inflammatory process that occurs as a result from the damage to the disc. The inflammation induces the release of chemicals that irritate the area around the nerve roots, thus causing symptoms along the innervation pathway of that nerve root. 
If you suspect that you may have a disc herniation, or something similar, please consult your chiropractor. A chiropractor specializes in the management and treatment of musculoskeletal pathology of the spine and can determine the best course of care for your condition.

Causes/Risk factors for disc herniation:

 Repetitive activities - bending, lifting and twisting can irritate the disc over time and cause inflammation of the nerve roots

Sudden loading of the spine while in a flexed position

Underlying degenerative changes of the disc (may or may not be associated with the natural aging process) - natural biochemical changes within the discs contributes to the loss of water and nutrition to the discs, this affects disc strength and resiliency

Lifestyle choices - tobacco use, lack of regular exercise, and inadequate nutrition can contribute to an unhealthy disc

Poor posture ¡V in combination with faulty biomechanical and/or structural function may alter gait pattern and ability to move properly, which stresses the lumbar spine by hindering its ability to distribute load properly and efficiently throughout the body.

Classic Presentation:

 Low back pain 
 Leg pain - often below the knee and into the feet/toes
 Sudden onset of pain after a bending, or twisting movement 
 Previous history of low back pain that resolved on its own 
 Weakness flexing foot towards the shin, or pointing toes down 
 Numbness/tingling down leg and/or feet 
 Pain may be worse with coughing, straining or sneezing 
 Pain may be worse with slouching and lateral bending 
 Pain may decrease with leaning towards one side (the one opposite to the pain)

Treatment:

The chiropractic approach to disc problems is to help restore better motion and position to the spinal joints to help reduce the pressure on the IVD. This allows the disc material to migrate back to their normal position, and/ or be reabsorbed by the body, so healing can occur in the tissues surrounding the disc. While conservative chiropractic care can alleviate the pain in most cases, taking proper care of your low back is paramount in ensuring a full recovery. Various chiropractic and conservative techniques are designed to treat lumbar disc syndrome, and the following may be employed to treat such cases:

 Chiropractic adjustment 
 Spinal decompression therapy (traction) 
 Flexion-distraction 
 Electrical modalities (i.e. Interferential, Ultrasound, E-Stim) 
 Cryotherapy 
 Cold laser 
 Kineseo tape 
 Acupuncture 
 Soft tissue therapy (Myofascial release, massage, etc...) 
 Rehabilitation/spinal stabilization exercises

Clinical practice guidelines for the management of acute low back pain released by the US Department of Health and Human Services (AHCPR) stated: 
Conservative treatment such as spinal manipulation should be pursued in most cases before considering surgical intervention; 
Prescription drugs such as oral steroids, antidepressant medications and colchicine are not recommended for acute low back problems. 
The risk of serious complications from lumbar spinal manipulation is rare

Differential diagnosis:

 Facet syndrome 
 Space occupying lesion (i.e. tumor, hematoma) 
 Mechanical back pain 
 Myofascitis
 Abdominal pathology 
 Kidney disease 
 Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Prognosis:

Research suggests that conservative treatment, including chiropractic care, yield greater results than traditional medical intervention (such as prescription drugs, surgery). Most patients will experience a reduction in pain and improved function soon after they begin a treatment regimen prescribed by their chiropractor. Surgery for low back pain has very poor outcomes, with complication rates as high as 40%. However, in rare cases, if a patient does not respond to conservative care, or undergoes severe neurological deficit, a referral to a neurosurgeon may be warranted.

Recent studies propose that patients with specific set of findings were determined to have the best chance of response from manipulative therapy. These factors include symptom duration of less than 16 days, lumbar hypomobility, at least one hip internal rotation range of motion >35„a, few symptoms below the knee, and ability to stay active/mobile despite pain. 

Published 10/26/2007

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- 2 Pages

Contact:  Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
345 North Main Street
W. Hartford, CT 06117
(860) 232-5556
sarahlaub@gmail.com

Chronic constipation second most frequent pediatric complaint

Study Shows Chiropractic Care Benefits Constipated Infants

(April 2, 2009, West Hartford).  A very small study group—three infants, all under two years of age—was put into chiropractic care for periods of three weeks to three months in a controlled research project.  Following the study, which was funded by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association of Media, PA, all three children showed marked improvement in their condition.

“Chronic constipation afflicts the very young and the aged among our population with more frequency than the rest of us,” said West Hartford-based Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.  “This problem accounts for 25% of all visits to pediatric gastroenterologists, but few formal studies have been conducted.”

Researchers chose three infants who were experiencing infrequent bowel movements of from once a week to once every 3 or 4 days.  Parents of these infants had tried dietary changes and the use of cod liver oil and mineral oil, all under the direction of medical doctors.  Nothing worked.

“The infants received full spinal chiropractic care,” said Dr. Laub, “for periods ranging from three weeks to three months.  All three experienced almost immediate improvement, and by the end of the study, all three had bowel movements at least once every 1-2 days.”

--more--

Chiropractic Care Benefits Constipated Infants- Page 2 of 2 
April 2, 2009

Dr. Moshe Laub, D.C.
345 North Main Street
W. Hartford, CT 06117
(860) 232-5556
 sarahlaub@gmail.com
       

“This study represents a very preliminary level of findings, and much more research is needed,” Dr. Laub added.  “But the results should offer some encouragement for parents of children with this problem.”

Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Laub, whose office is located at 345 N. Main Street, West Hartford, CT (telephone 860-232-5556).

Reference:
“The successful chiropractic care of pediatric patients with chronic constipation:  A case study and selective review of the literature,” Clinical Chiropractic (2008) 11, 138-147.

Breast Feeding Difficulties and Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction
by Dr. Moshe Laub B.P.T, D.C.

Breastfeeding is one of the best things a mother can do for her new baby.  In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics calls breastfeeding “uniquely superior” to all other forms of infant nutrition  and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that all babies, with rare exceptions, be exclusively breastfed for about six months .  Milk produced by all mammals is specifically adapted for feeding their own young, meaning that cow milk cannot provide all the nutrients needed by a human child in the correct amounts.  Furthermore, breast milk reduces the incidence and severity of a wide range of infectious diseases, reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and reduces the risk of a great many other diseases such as diabetes, leukemia, asthma, and more.  Breastfeeding not only greatly helps the child’s health, but it also helps mothers by decreasing bleeding after the birth, speeding return to her pre-birth weight, decreasing the risk of later developing breast or ovarian cancer, and reducing the effects of osteoporosis.

The act of breastfeeding is also a vital part of the infant-child bonding process and in the learning development of the infant.  Beyond these emotional, psychological, and developmental benefits, there is also a physiological communication between mother and child during breastfeeding .  By breastfeeding, the mother’s body is able to respond to the changing needs of the infant in ways that are impossible to replicate through formulas.
 
Despite the vital importance of breastfeeding, many mothers find it difficult or impossible to nurse their infants.  Only rarely, however, is this difficulty due to a problem with milk production or other conditions with the mother.  The most common causes are the child’s inability to either latch or suckle effectively.  Midwives, lactation consultants, and other health professionals that deal with infant nutrition can suggest ways a mother can help her child overcome these difficulties, but a chiropractor can also be an important member of the team addressing these issues.  Unknown to many, problems in the child’s temporomandibular (TMJ) joint can affect their sucking and latching abilities.

The TMJ joint is the joint where the lower jaw (called the mandible) meets the skull.  When the mouth opens, the jaw rotates around the head of the mandible and slides forwards slightly.  TMJ dysfunction is any condition where these motions are impeded or compromised by problems such as misalignment or obstructions.
 
It should not be surprising, therefore, that difficulties in this motion can interfere with breastfeeding.  Of 1,000 infants treated in one recent study for breastfeeding problems, 800 had TMJ dysfunction .  Another study of 25 infants with breastfeeding problems and 10 children without problems revealed a pattern of TMJ issues in the children that couldn’t breastfeed.

Why would an infant have TMJ dysfunction in the first place?  One leading cause is birth trauma.  Birth requires the baby’s head to be squeezed through along the small diameter, muscular birth canal.  The human skull is adapted to actually have the skull plates shift position in order to make this journey.  Displacement of skull bones is inevitable during a vaginal birth.  Even a Cesarean birth  can cause displacement and shifting during birth.

In most children, these bones shift into their normal alignment but some bones and joints can remain misaligned.  These misaligned skeletal structures are called subluxated.  Subluxated structures around the TMJ can cause a number of issues, such as pain, poor muscle development, and joint dysfunction.  Remember that infants before the age of two experience the world largely through their mouths.  Oral pain or muscle issues can interfere with vital developmental milestones.
 
Parents that have children who can’t or won’t breastfeed also know the emotional burden it can cause.  The first, most obvious worry is about supplying sufficient nutrition to the infant.  Beyond that, infants that are having nursing difficulties are frequently colicky.  One case study describes a 3-week-old infant that showed “flatulence and outbursts of crying from 9 PM to 1 AM” for each of the prior 19 days .  Another mother reported her 15 day-old child had an inability to breastfeed and colic since birth, was crying constantly, and had shaking, screaming, rash, and vomiting when she attempted feeding .  Another 2-day-old diagnosed with persistent failure to latch actually had jaundice from presumed malnourishment and faced hospitalization prior to chiropractic treatment .  Other symptoms encountered in children that are not able to nurse are excess spitting, restlessness during or between feeds, suckling objects like a fist or blanket, pulling off the breast frequently, excessively long or short feeds, falling asleep at the breast and taking a bottle directly after breast feeding.  While not all these symptoms are definite indications of potentially malnourishing breastfeeding problems, they definitely deserve follow-up.

Just as the mother’s health is improved by breastfeeding, her health can be negatively affected by breastfeeding problems.  If an infant is nursing poorly, cysts can develop in the milk ducts, infections can occur in the nipples, there can be insufficient or uneven production of milk, and more.  This can result in a vicious circle where breastfeeding problems lead to problems with nursing, which results in less breastfeeding, which leads to more issues affecting the mother.

Chiropractic can help infants with nursing problems due to TMJ dysfunction by realigning bones and joints.  By doing this, the TMJ is brought into correct functioning, assisting the child with establishing and maintaining nursing.
  
Chiropractic care can retraining muscles involved in feeding as well balance the joints and muscles involved.  A chiropractic adjustment in the TMJ area may decrease the irritation and allow for improved tongue coordination. Simple non-force procedures can be very effective in solving the suckling and feeding problems in the newborn.
Babies that are able to breastfeed normally are much more likely to be healthy babies.  The non-invasive techniques of a skilled chiropractic physician can help alleviate or eliminate musculoskeletal problems preventing proper breastfeeding.  These changes provide the foundation for good health of both mother and child now and in the future.

References:

  American Academy Of Pediatrics. Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics, 2005 Feb;115(2):496-506.
  American Academy of Family Physicians. Breastfeeding (Policy Statement) [Internet]. 2007 [cited July 17, 2009]. Available from: http://www.aafp.org/online/en/home/policy/policies/b/ breastfeedingpolicy.html
  Australian Breastfeeding Association. Every mother knows {Internet]. 2009 [cited July 17, 2009]. Available from: http://www.kindredmedia.com.au/library_page1/every_mother_knows/66/1
  Arcadi, VC. Birth induced TMJ dysfunction: the most common cause of breastfeeding difficulties. In: Proceedings of the National Conference on Chiropractic and Pediatrics. Oct, 1993 Palm Springs, CA. Arlington, VA.: International Chiropractors Association; 1993.
  Arcadi, V. Birth-induced TMJ syndrome is most common cause of breastfeeding difficulties. Dynamic Chiropractic, 1993 Aug;11(17)
  Krauss, L. Case study: infant's inability to breast-feed. Chiropractic Pediatrics, 1994 Dec; 1( 3)
  Sheader, WE. Chiropractic management of an infant experiencing breastfeeding difficulties and colic: a case study. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, 1999; 4(1)
  Esch, S. Newborn with atlas subluxation/absent rooting reflex from Case reports in chiropractic pediatrics (case #4). ACA J of Chiropractic, 1988 Dec.